Spring fire hazards to watch for

Spring is a popular time of year for many residents to begin yard cleanups, home maintenance and outdoor activities. As residents welcome spring and summer, Mississauga Fire and Emergency Services (MFES) are asking residents to stay safe from fire hazards.

Consider that yard waste, electrical tools, open‑air burning, barbecuing and other activities raise the risk of accidental fires. Over the next few weeks, take time to make sure your home is fire safe. Test your smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors, review fire escape plans and reduce clutter to protect from potential hazards.

Follow this guide to protect yourself and the people around you this spring and summer.

Fire hazards to keep an eye our for during spring and summer

Reduce hazards with spring cleaning

• Remove leaves, branches and debris from around your home, garage and backyard sheds.
• Keep combustible materials away from vehicles. Heated components can ignite dry debris.
• Pull out your fridge and vacuum the coils (unplug first).
• Clean stove hood filters to prevent grease buildup.
• Remove lint from the dryer. This should be done after every use.
• Recycle old newspapers, magazines and junk mail. Paper catches fire easily and helps fires spread faster.
• Clear stairways and landings so they’re accessible to everyone in case of an emergency.

Grill safely

• Keep your barbecue (BBQ) at least three feet away from structures, trees and other flammable or combustible materials like patio furniture.
• After cooking, allow your BBQ to cool down completely before closing the lids and storing it away.
• Have a balcony in a condo? Check with your property manager to confirm if BBQs are permitted.
• If you use propane, store tanks upright and away from direct sunlight or heat. Check hoses and tanks for leaks or cracks. If you use a charcoal grill, use starter fluid and not gasoline. After grilling, let coals cool fully in a metal container, like a can.
• Remember, never leave a grill unattended and make sure the lid is open before lighting. Need to step away for a quick second? Ask someone for help. Do not ask children or vulnerable people to look after a grill while it’s on.

Download the BBQ safety guide.

Check your electrical items

• Inspect outlets and cords for damage.
• Look for signs of animal nesting in outdoor outlets or stored appliances.

Safely store fuels and chemicals

Organizing your home for spring or moving items from one place to another?

• Inspect fuel containers for leaks and store them in well‑ventilated areas.
• Properly store paints, pool chemicals and yard products.

Be aware of open‑air burning rules

Mississauga has strict regulations on open‑air burning to help protect the health and safety of residents. MFES provides detailed guidance on:

• Fire pits
• Outdoor fireplaces
• BBQ safety

Throughout the summer, always check for burn bans or air‑quality advisories before lighting anything outdoors.

Fire-proof cottages and cabins

If you’re opening a cottage for the season:

• Inspect power lines for downed tree limbs.
• Check on your propane equipment and follow safe grilling advice as mentioned above.
• Bring spare smoke and carbon monoxide alarm batteries and replace alarms exposed to extreme cold during the winter months. Remember, new legislation requires carbon monoxide alarms on every floor.

Spring is a good time to refresh your home and reset your safety habits. Small steps can help reduce fire risks this season.

Read more fire safety tips online.

Tags

• Fire and Emergency Services
• Public Safety